Nivetha Chandran, Rehabilitation Sciences Institute

Year of Study: 1st year MSc
Pre-MSc/Ph.D. Education: University of Toronto, Honours Bachelor of Science - Majors in Human Biology and Health Studies (Population Health) with a minor in Psychology

Why Faculty of Medicine: I chose to pursue my graduate studies in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto due to its world-renowned reputation and commitment towards the advancement of medicine and medical research. I also wanted to immerse myself in an environment which offers many opportunities to develop my research skills, learn new skills, and provides mentorship and interprofessional collaborations.

Why this Department: The Rehabilitation Sciences Institute at the University of Toronto is ranked one of the top programs in the world, and I was amazed by the wide range of expertise of the faculty members of the institute. I was also impressed by the diversity, and the impact that research from RSI contributed to the field of rehabilitation sciences. RSI also has a strong sense of community, which attracted me to the institute.

Current Research Experience: I have been involved in research since my undergraduate studies, where I have worked in research labs at various institutions such as University of Toronto, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University Health Network, and The Hospital for Sick Children. My master’s project is about the interplay of the social determinants of health on people living with HIV when engaging in physical activity and exercise.

Future Education Plans and/or Career Goals: After my MSc, I wish to pursue professional school in an area related to health such as rehabilitation and medicine, and become a clinician-scientist. I aim to become a researcher and a leader in the implementation of research into practice, where I can engage in scholarly practice and clinical research.